Boston Red Sox

In honor of Fenway’s 100th anniversary, the Consul General of Japan in Boston, Takeshi Hikihara,will present the Red Sox with a cherry blossom tree during the pre-game ceremony before Monday night’s game against the Seattle Mariners.

In addition to celebrating Fenway Park’s 100th anniversary, the gift also marks the 100th anniversary of Japan’s original gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Mayor of Tokyo, Yukio Ozaki, to Washington, D.C. in 1912. The cherry trees in Washington, D.C. have become a symbol of the warm relations between the two countries.

“It is a very happy coincidence that this year is not only the 100th anniversary of the Fenway Park, but also of the planting of the 3,000 Japanese Cherry Trees in Washington D.C.,” said Hikihara. “I am glad that we are able to come together to celebrate these wonderful occasions in Boston and strengthen our friendship. Japan and the United States share many common cultural values, including a great love of baseball, and Fenway Park is indeed a treasure to both Japanese and Americans living here.”

“We are honored by this gift from the Japanese people to help celebrate the 100th anniversary of Fenway Park,” said Lucchino. “As we embark on the next century in one of the great cathedrals of sport, we look forward to further strengthening our relationship with Japan through our mutual love of baseball.”

The gift also symbolizes the deep gratitude of the Japanese people for the assistance and generosity in helping victims of the March 2011 Japan Earthquake and Tsunami. The Red Sox Foundation raised and donated $1.3 million to the Japanese Red Cross after the disaster.

The Red Sox will plant the tree inside Gate B before placing it on Yawkey Way when it has grown.

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